Climate debate hitting new lows: scientist

Australia's chief scientist says climate change debate continues to hit new lows as the government's contentious carbon pricing scheme fuels the fire for political division.

Professor Ian Chubb wants politicians to consider compelling evidence [like what, specifically?] that human activity has adversely affected the climate through global warming.

He says while it's important people have different views about climate science, there are concerns about the level of threats sent to those working in the field.